Hello,
Congrats on wanting to be an artist! I can tell you from experience, building your kit is expensive; there's just no way around it. Even if you work with "lower" end products (I'm not a fan of the word lower), it adds up. Here's a couple tips that will help:
-Buy the Book "Don't go to the Cosmetics Counter without Me" (I believe the latest edition is the 8th edition). It's a professionally sourced guide to makeup and skin products, and covers a HUGE range of brands--from cover girl to dior, etc. The author goes into detail about how she rates products. We are so used to hearing cosmetic ads say "scientifically proven to...." and this book really blew my mind when it discussed how the "scientific testing" that is done by many companies is pretty much laughable.
Sooo......this book can help you determine what products are worth spending your money on, and which you may want to ask a few people their opinions before dropping the money.
-SAVE YOUR RECEIPTS. save ALL of your cosmetic receipts AND gas receipts. These can all be used for tax purposes.
-Work on your marketing and professional image. Many people want to hear a name brand when asking for a product. They like to hear "I use only the finest quality products." You need to be able to convince your clients that although you don't have "high end" products, they will receive the same quality look and professional service.
-Find the best makeup artist in your area and ask to be his or her assistant.
-Network with photographers and models. Ask them about their experiences with mua's. Ask what they have liked/haven't liked with artists.
-Find out about pro discounts on more expensive brands. Search this site and youtube for "pro makeup discounts." You can save a to of money.
-You can start with less expensive products that work: I've heard a lot of good things about the costal scents 88 palette. Nordstroms also makes a palette with TONS of colors for around 30 dollars. I've also heard good things from other MUA's about Revlon lipsticks.
-Go to camerareadycosmetics . com website. Apply for a pro account there as well.
-Determine what foundations you like to work with. (Liquid? Cream to powder? Aibrush)
-Google/shop online for disposables as you will need a TON of them (mascara wants, remover wipes, etc.)
-Get a SALLY's pro card. Ask your local sally's about it. You can get a ton of beauty supplies and makeup there.
-Buy 91 or 99 percent alcohol in bulk online. Google it. You will go through a LOT of that, and it's much cheaper to buy a big gallon or whatever rather than spending 2-3 bucks all the time at CVS.
Finally, practice , practice, practice your professional communication skills as well. Make sure your marketing materials are as professional as your makeup application
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PM me if you need more info. My wrists are sore from typing LOL. I guess the bottom line is educate yourself as much as possible before buying any brand of cosmetics. Hope this helps!!